How two body decay energy spectrum is discrete?

In summary, a two body decay energy spectrum refers to the distribution of energies of particles produced in a decay process where only two particles are produced. It is discrete because the total energy of the system is conserved. The calculation of this spectrum involves the conservation of energy and momentum equations and results in a discrete set of energy values. It cannot be continuous due to the conservation of energy and momentum. The energy spectrum of two body decays differs from that of multi-body decays in that it is discrete, while multi-body decays can have a continuous spectrum due to the possibility of energy being shared between more than two particles.
  • #1
Lobzang Dojay
1
0
it is said that the energy spectrum of two body and three body decay is discrete and continuous respectively.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
How many ways do you find to satisfy both energy and momentum conservation?

(A quick google search would have given the same result).
 
  • Like
Likes e.bar.goum

FAQ: How two body decay energy spectrum is discrete?

1. What is a two body decay energy spectrum?

A two body decay energy spectrum refers to the distribution of energies of particles produced in a decay process where only two particles are produced. This is in contrast to a multi-body decay where more than two particles are produced.

2. Why is the energy spectrum of two body decays discrete?

The energy spectrum of two body decays is discrete because the total energy of the system (the two particles produced) is conserved. This means that the energy must be shared between the two particles in specific amounts, resulting in a discrete set of energy values.

3. How is the energy spectrum of two body decays calculated?

The energy spectrum of two body decays can be calculated using the conservation of energy and momentum equations, as well as the known masses of the particles involved. This calculation results in a discrete set of energy values for the two particles produced.

4. Can the energy spectrum of two body decays be continuous?

No, the energy spectrum of two body decays cannot be continuous. This is due to the conservation of energy and momentum, which dictates that the total energy of the system must be conserved and therefore cannot take on any arbitrary value.

5. How does the energy spectrum of two body decays differ from that of multi-body decays?

The energy spectrum of two body decays is discrete, while the energy spectrum of multi-body decays can be continuous. This is because in multi-body decays, the total energy can be shared between more than two particles, resulting in a wider range of possible energy values for each particle.

Similar threads

Replies
32
Views
3K
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
9
Views
3K
Replies
6
Views
4K
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
2K
Replies
3
Views
2K
Back
Top